Last Updated on March 28, 2025 by Rodrigo @ OutofYourComfortZone

If you’re planning a trip to Brazil, congratulations, you’ve made an excellent choice! This incredible country is famous for its paradisiacal beaches, lush rainforests, and of course, Carnival. But Brazil has much more to offer than just the conventional tourist destinations. Today, we’re going to explore a city that few people know about, but that should be at the top of any nature lover’s list: Nobres, in Mato Grosso!

Before we delve into Nobres, let’s take a quick look at Mato Grosso. This giant state is located right in the heart of Brazil, my home country, and is a veritable mosaic of ecosystems. Here, you’ll find three of Brazil’s most important biomes: the Amazon, the Cerrado, and the Pantanal. Each of them is a world unto itself, full of wildlife, exotic plants, and stunning landscapes!

Mato Grosso is a destination for those who love outdoor adventures and have an explorer’s spirit. So, if you’re ready to trade the hustle and bustle of big cities for a close encounter with nature, keep reading. I’ll guide you on an unforgettable trip to Nobres, with an itinerary and a detailed map!

 

How to get to Mato Grosso?

The first step on your Nobres adventure is to get to Mato Grosso. To do so, you’ll land in the state capital, Cuiabá. Cuiabá is a bustling, hot city (literally, get ready for the heat!) that serves as the gateway to exploring the natural wonders of Mato Grosso.

Marechal Rondon International Airport, located just 10 km from downtown Cuiabá, receives flights from several major Brazilian cities, such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília and others. If you are coming from outside Brazil, you will probably have a connection in one of these cities before arriving in Cuiabá.

But first…

 

 

How to get from Cuiabá to Nobres?

So, you’ve landed in Cuiabá and want to get to Nobres. But how do you get there? Here are your options:

 

   1. Rent a car

If you love the idea of ​​hitting the road and exploring at your own pace, renting a car might be the best option for you. The distance between Cuiabá and Nobres is about 150 km, and the drive takes approximately 2-3 hours. Here are some tips for the trip:

– Routes: The most common route is to follow the BR-364 to Rosário Oeste and then take the MT-241 to Nobres. The roads are paved most of the way, but it’s always a good idea to be prepared for some bumpy stretches.

– Stops: Along the way, you can make some interesting stops to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery. For example, Rosário Oeste is a charming little town where you can stop for a snack!

– GPS and Maps: Although GPS services usually work well, it’s always a good idea to have an offline map on hand, since cell phone signal can be unstable in more remote areas.

 

 

   2. Organized Tour

If you’d rather leave the navigation and logistical details to someone else, opting for an organized tour might be the best option for you. Many travel agencies in Cuiabá offer packages to Nobres that include transportation, accommodation, and guided activities. Here are some benefits of this option:

– Experienced Guide: Local guides know the area well and can share information and stories that you wouldn’t find in a travel guide.

– Safety: Traveling with a group to Brazil can be safer, especially if you’re not familiar with the local roads and conditions.

– Convenience: Everything is organized for you, from transportation to activities, allowing you to relax and enjoy your trip without any worries!

 

 

What Do I Need to Know Before Going to Nobres?

Before embarking on this adventure, it is important to be prepared. Here is a list of things you should know before traveling to Nobres:

 

• Local Culture and Customs

Understanding a little about the local culture and customs will help you integrate better and enjoy the experience even more.

Friendliness: The people of Mato Grosso are known for being welcoming and friendly. The language spoken in Brazil is Portuguese, so a smile and a “bom dia” always go down well!

Respect for Nature: The locals have great respect for nature. Follow their example and help preserve the natural beauty of Nobres.

Local Gastronomy: Try the region’s typical dishes, such as roasted pacu, pintado fish in sauce and moqueca de pintado fish. Eating is an essential part of the cultural experience!

 

• Curiosities and Tips

Brazilian Time: Brazil is very relaxed about schedules, but in tourist places like Nobres, it is always good to check if the tours start on time. And remember, lunch time can be extended by a few hours – take the opportunity to rest and enjoy a good meal!

 

• Activities:

Nobres is a true paradise for nature and adventure lovers. Here are some unmissable activities:

Floating: One of the most popular activities in Nobres is floating in the crystal-clear rivers. Equipped with a snorkel, you will feel like you are swimming in a giant aquarium, surrounded by colorful fish.

Waterfalls and Caves: Explore the hidden waterfalls and mysterious caves. The Serra Azul Waterfall and the Blue Lagoon Cave are must-sees – prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty.

Boat Tours: Enjoy boat tours along the Triste River and be enchanted by the lush landscape. Keep an eye out for alligators and exotic birds that inhabit the region.

Traveling to Nobres is like diving headfirst into the natural beauty of Brazil and the hospitality of the Brazilian people. Get ready to fall in love with this piece of paradise in Mato Grosso!

Now that you’re ready, let’s get down to business: the itinerary!

 

How to Make a 3-Day Itinerary in Nobres?

 

You can see the detailed map after the itinerary!

 

   Day 1: Arrival and Initial Exploration

– Morning: Depart Cuiabá and travel to Nobres. Enjoy the road and the scenery as you head to your destination. Don’t forget to stop in Rosário Oeste for a coffee and some photos.

– Afternoon: Check in at the guesthouse and have a well-deserved lunch. Tip: Try a local dish with fresh fish, a specialty of the region. After lunch, take a relaxing stroll through the city to learn a little about the local culture. Visit some craft shops and chat with the locals for a better integration and cultural experience.

– Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Sample regional cuisine and try a delicious caipirinha made with local fruits. Afterwards, relax at the guesthouse and get ready for the next day.

 

   Day 2: Water Adventures

– Morning: Wake up early and head to Lagoa das Araras. This is a magical place where you can see colorful macaws flying and feeding. It’s an unmissable experience for nature and photography lovers.

– Afternoon: After a light snack, head to Rio Triste for some snorkeling. The crystal-clear water allows you to see a variety of fish and aquatic plants. Don’t forget to bring an underwater camera!

– Evening: Back at the lodge, take a relaxing bath and enjoy a peaceful night. Take the opportunity to share your photos and stories of the day with other travelers!

 

 

   Day 3: Cave Exploration and Closing

– Morning: Visit the Gruta da Lagoa Azul. This cave has a lake of incredibly blue waters, perfect for photos and a moment of peace. The hike to the cave is relatively easy and worth every step.

– Afternoon: The next stop is the Cachoeira Serra Azul, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region. Here you can swim, explore and simply relax in nature.

– Evening: After a day full of adventures, it’s time to say goodbye to Nobres. Check out of the lodge and begin the journey back to Cuiabá. If you still have time, make one last stop in Rosário Oeste for a snack before heading back.

 

 

See the detailed map for Nobres here!

 

 

What Typical Dishes to Try for Each Day of the Itinerary in Nobres?

Exploring Nobres is an incredible experience, but such an adventure wouldn’t be complete without sampling my country’s delicious local cuisine!

 

   Day 1: Arrival and Initial Exploration

Lunch: Roasted Pacu

You’ve just arrived in Nobres and, after a tiring trip, there’s nothing better than starting with a lunch fit for a king. The dish of the moment is Roasted Pacu!

Pacu is a freshwater fish typical of the region and, when roasted, it gains a special flavor. It is seasoned with fresh herbs, lemon and a touch of black pepper. The skin becomes crispy and the meat juicy. It is usually served with rice, pirão and tomato salad. The final touch is a slice of lemon to squeeze on the spot. A delight that will give you energy to explore the city!

 

Dinner: Pintado ao Molho

For dinner, get ready for an explosion of flavors with Pintado ao Molho. Pintado is another river fish that is famous in Mato Grosso cuisine.

It is cooked in a creamy sauce made with tomato, onion, bell pepper and coconut milk. The aroma is irresistible! It is usually served with white rice and banana farofa, which gives a sweet and crunchy contrast to the dish. Pair it with a lemon or passion fruit caipirinha and you will be in gastronomic heaven!

 

 

  Day 2: Water Adventures

Breakfast: Rice Cake

Before starting a day full of aquatic adventures, how about a traditional breakfast? Try the Rice Cake.

This cake is made with ground rice, milk, eggs, and cheese. It is slightly sweet and has an incredible texture, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It is perfect with a fresh cup of coffee. A true explosion of flavor!

 

Lunch: Moqueca de Pintado

After a morning full of activities at Lagoa das Araras, a lunch that combines flavor and tradition is Moqueca de Pintado.

This dish is a masterpiece of local cuisine. The pintado is cooked in a clay pot with coconut milk, palm oil, peppers, tomatoes, onions and cilantro. The result is a thick and aromatic broth that will win you over from the first spoonful. Serve with white rice and farofa de dendê, and you’ll be ready to continue your journey.

 

Dinner: Rice with Pequi

To end the day, try Rice with Pequi for dinner. Pequi is a typical fruit from the Cerrado, known for its unique and striking flavor.

The rice is cooked with pieces of pequi, onion and garlic, absorbing all the flavor of the fruit. The aroma is unmistakable and the flavor is unmatched. It is usually accompanied by sun-dried meat and a green salad. Oh, and be careful when eating the pequi – it has a thorny seed in the middle, so you should eat it slowly!

 

   Day 3: Cave Exploration and Closing

Breakfast: Pão de Queijo

Start your last day in Nobres with a Brazilian classic: Pão de Queijo.

These little treats are made with tapioca flour, eggs, milk and lots of cheese. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they’re the perfect way to start your day off right. Try them with a strong cup of coffee, and you’ll be ready for the day’s adventures.

 

Lunch: Pacu Belly

After visiting the Blue Lagoon Cave, recharge your batteries with a lunch of Pacu Ventrecha.

The ventrecha is the finest part of the pacu, with tender and tasty meat. It is fried until it is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This dish is usually accompanied by white rice, feijão tropeiro (a type of Brazilian bean stew) and a lettuce and tomato salad. It’s a real feast!

 

Dinner: Piranha Broth

For a farewell dinner, there’s nothing better than something very regional: Piranha Broth.

Piranha is a fish found in abundance in the region’s rivers, and its broth is considered a delicacy. Cooked with tomatoes, peppers, onions and garlic, the broth is tasty and nutritious. Served hot, with toast or bread, it’s the perfect way to end your gastronomic journey on a high note.

 

 

   Extras: Drinks and Desserts

We can’t forget the drinks and desserts that complement these delicacies:

– Drinks: In addition to the traditional caipirinha, try local fruit juices such as cashew, acerola, cupuaçu and soursop. Refreshing and full of flavor!

– Desserts: Finish your meal with typical desserts such as dulce de leche, cassava cake or the famous pamonha. Simply irresistible!

Now that you know these incredible dishes, your trip to Nobres will be even more unforgettable. Enjoy every flavor!

 

What are the 9 main safety precautions when traveling to Nobres?

Before you rush off to dive into the crystal clear waters and explore caves, it is essential to be aware of some safety precautions.

I will give you some tips to ensure that you only have good stories to tell. Let’s go!

 

1. Trip Planning and Routes

– Safe Routes: Don’t go off on a whim! Plan your route before you leave. Use a good navigation app and, if possible, download offline maps. What if the signal goes out?

– Avoid Night Travel: The roads in Mato Grosso can be a bit treacherous at night, not to mention the animals that sometimes appear on the road. Travel during the day to see everything clearly.

– Gas Stations: Fill up your car well before leaving Cuiabá and take advantage of strategic stops at gas stations along the way. Better safe than sorry, right?

 

2. Drinking Water and Food

– Bottled Water: Don’t mess around with water. Only drink bottled water and keep an eye on the ice in your drinks. It’s best not to take any chances!

– Fresh Food: Choose fresh, well-cooked food. Be careful with street vendors – sometimes appearances can be deceiving.

– Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands whenever you can and keep some hand sanitizer in your backpack!

 

3. Insect Protection

– Insect repellent: Bring a good insect repellent and don’t be afraid. In nature, mosquitoes are plentiful and hungry!

– Appropriate clothing: Long-sleeved clothing and pants are a good idea for trails and night walks. No one deserves to get bitten all over.

– Mosquito nets: If your accommodation has mosquito nets, use them! If not, a portable hammock can save the night.

 

4. Personal Safety

– Valuables: Leave your most valuable items in the hotel safe or in a secure bag. Don’t carry a lot of cash or expensive electronics.

– Discretion: Avoid showing off money or valuables in public. Less is more.

– Company: Whenever possible, go on tours in a group or with a local guide. It’s safer and even more fun!

 

5. First Aid and Health

– First Aid Kit: Put together a basic kit with band-aids, antiseptics, painkillers, and medicine for stomach aches and allergies. Just in case you need it, right?

– Vaccinations: Before traveling, make sure your vaccinations are up to date, especially for yellow fever. Talk to your doctor about other recommended vaccinations.

– Local Pharmacies: Find out where the pharmacies closest to your accommodation are. You never know when you might need a little medicine!

6. Sun Protection and Hydration

– Sunscreen: Don’t skimp on sunscreen! Use one with a high SPF and reapply every two hours. The sun in Mato Grosso is no joke!

– Hat and Sunglasses: Wear a hat or cap and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes. Style and protection all in one!

– Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Always carry a bottle with you and stay hydrated.

 

 

7. Safe Transport

– Car Rental: If you are going to rent a car, choose a reliable company and make sure the vehicle is in good condition. Check the tires, brakes and lights.

– Seatbelts: Always wear your seatbelt and respect the speed limits!

– Maps and GPS: Use an updated GPS and have offline maps available for any emergency.

 

8. Travel Insurance

– Comprehensive Coverage: Get travel insurance for Brazil that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, lost luggage and trip cancellation. Just in case something unexpected happens!

– Specific Activities: Check if the insurance covers the activities you will do in Nobres, such as snorkeling, hiking and boat trips. It is best to be safe.

– Documentation: Have digital and physical copies of your insurance policy and keep your insurance’s emergency contact details handy.

 

9. Respect for Nature and Sustainability

– Respect for Wildlife: Do not feed or touch wild animals. They are beautiful, but they need to be respected.

– Trash: Bring your trash back to your accommodation and dispose of it properly. Help keep nature clean!

– Marked Trails: Follow the marked trails and respect the signs. Do not step on sensitive areas to preserve the local flora and fauna.

 

In conclusion…

Nobres is a destination that offers a perfect combination of adventure, nature and tranquility. With its crystal clear waters, impressive caves and vibrant wildlife, Nobres is a hidden gem worth exploring.

Be prepared to marvel at Brazil’s natural beauty and create unforgettable memories.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, prepare your adventurous spirit and come discover Nobres.

Have a good trip and see you on your next adventure! 🇧🇷🌎✈️

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